How do women contribute to the fishing economy in the Mamanguape River Estuary?

In the Mamanguape River Estuary (MRE), women are deeply involved in fishing activities, which are essential for their families' survival and income generation. They utilize a diverse range of resources, including 30 fish species, 8 crustacean species, and 3 mollusk species. Their involvement is vital for the economic stability of their households and communities. They obtain necessary resources and performing essential functions in local fishing practices.

What marine species are most utilized by women in the Mamanguape River Estuary, and what does this signify?

Women in the Mamanguape River Estuary (MRE) utilize a wide variety of marine resources, with significant use of species like Genidens genidens, Callinectes exasperatus, and Anomalocardia brasiliana. They actively participate in fishing, demonstrating extensive knowledge of the local ecosystem. Their roles highlight the critical link between productive activities and the health of mangrove ecosystems.

How can policies support the role of women in fishing and conservation within the Mamanguape River Estuary?

The research in the Mamanguape River Estuary (MRE) underscores the need to recognize women's contributions to fishing and environmental conservation. By including women in the formulation of inclusive environmental policies and management practices, it ensures the long-term health and resilience of this vital ecosystem. It is essential to integrate their knowledge and practices into management plans for sustainable resource use.

In what ways does traditional knowledge held by women in the Mamanguape River Estuary contribute to the sustainability of mangrove ecosystems?

Women's traditional knowledge in the Mamanguape River Estuary (MRE) is invaluable for the sustainable management of mangrove ecosystems. Their practices in fishing and resource utilization reflect a deep understanding of the local environment, making them key stakeholders in conservation efforts. Recognizing and supporting their roles can lead to more effective and community-based conservation strategies. Further research could explore the specific traditional ecological knowledge held by these women and how it can be integrated into broader conservation planning. This approach ensures that management practices are both scientifically sound and culturally appropriate.

What are the broader implications of women's economic and conservation activities in the Mamanguape River Estuary for the future of the region?

The economic and conservation activities of women in the Mamanguape River Estuary (MRE) have far-reaching implications for the resilience of both the local communities and the ecosystem. Their active participation in fishing and resource management supports family livelihoods, contributes to local food security, and helps maintain the health of mangrove ecosystems. By empowering these women, we foster a more sustainable future, safeguarding these resources for future generations and ensuring the stability of the region's economy and environment.

Women working together in a vibrant mangrove estuary.

Coastal Women: The Unseen Force in Fishing and Conservation

Lena Voss in Climate & Environment August 2025 • 4 min read.

"Exploring the vital role of women in the Mamanguape River Estuary's fishing economy and environmental preservation."

Mangrove-estuary ecosystems are vital transition zones connecting freshwater and marine environments. These areas, rich in biodiversity, not only support intricate food webs but also serve as crucial resources for local human communities. Mangroves provide lumber, dyes, and an abundance of fishes, crustaceans, and mollusks, all essential for the subsistence of those who live nearby.

Within these communities, the family unit is key. All members actively participate in fishing activities, ensuring both survival and extra income. Women play a particularly significant role, engaging in income-generating activities that are directly linked to the use and management of natural marine resources. Their involvement highlights the intersection of productive processes and environmental dynamics.

Understanding how women manage these environments is crucial for sustainable practices. This article explores the appropriation and use of fishing resources by women residing near the Mamanguape River Estuary (MRE) in Paraíba, Brazil, shedding light on their essential contributions to both the local economy and environmental conservation efforts.

Women's Roles in the Mamanguape River Estuary

Women working together in a vibrant mangrove estuary.

A study was conducted in the Mamanguape River Estuary (MRE) to evaluate how women utilize fishing resources. Researchers combined qualitative methods, such as interviews and direct observations, with quantitative methods, like use value calculations. Thirty women were interviewed, revealing their use of 41 different species: 30 fish, 8 crustaceans, and 3 mollusks. These resources are primarily used for local consumption and sale, highlighting their economic and nutritional importance.

The species with the highest use values were Genidens genidens (0.7), Callinectes exasperatus (0.73), and Anomalocardia brasiliana (0.46). This diversity underscores the significance of the mangrove ecosystem to families in the MRE. These findings serve as a foundation for creating public policies that promote women's equal participation in fishing and environmental conservation efforts.

Economic Contribution: Women actively participate in fishing, ensuring family survival and generating income.
Resource Diversity: They utilize 41 species, demonstrating extensive knowledge of the local ecosystem.
Conservation Impact: Their practices are vital for maintaining the balance of mangrove ecosystems.
Policy Implications: Data supports the formulation of inclusive environmental policies.

Despite their critical role, few studies have focused specifically on women's participation in the fishing economy of the MRE. Women in this region have established deep connections with the mangrove ecosystem, obtaining necessary resources and performing essential functions in local fishing practices. This study aims to address this gap by evaluating the use of MRE fishing resources by fisherwomen and examining the importance of these resources to their livelihoods. The information gathered can contribute to future management plans and practices designed to ensure the sustainable use of species in this vital region.

Empowering Women for a Sustainable Future

The study highlights the indispensable role women play in the fishing economy and conservation of the Mamanguape River Estuary. By recognizing their contributions and promoting their equal participation, we can foster more effective and sustainable environmental policies. Supporting these women not only sustains their families and communities but also ensures the long-term health and resilience of this vital ecosystem, safeguarding it for future generations.